NHS Walsall CCG and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust (WHT) have been undertaking a review of the sustainability of providing a hyper-acute stroke unit (HASU), in line with the recommendations given in the National Stroke Strategy.

The strategy identifies major stages in a stroke patient’s pathway and stresses a need to reorganise the way in which stroke services are delivered from prevention through to support for those who have experienced a stroke.

The publication recommends an approach whereby a stroke service should deliver a 7 day a week consultant cover, 24 hour CT scans and rapid treatment to prevent death and limit enduring disability for patients. To be a viable hyper acute stroke service it is recommended that there is a minimum of 600 confirmed stroke patients each year.

Walsall Manor Hospital currently cares for 360-400 patients per year, with good rated care overall. However, the level of activity from these circa 400 confirmed stroke patients is insufficient to meet the HASU requirements.

To deliver acute stroke services for Walsall residents, a reasonable scale is required to ensure there is sufficient consultant coverage to provide safe and sustainable services. Options for increasing our catchment and working with the Black Country Alliance partners have already been explored.

Following partner and system wide discussions NHS Walsall CCG have launched a six week public consultation that runs from 14th August until 22nd September.

The public consultation is about asking local people to give their view on hyper acute services for Walsall residents to be transferred to the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (New Cross Hospital).

We want you to have your voice heard and encourage you to take part:
•Complete the survey
•Request a hardcopy by calling 01922 618388
•Write to us at Walsall CCG, Jubilee House, Bloxwich Lane, Walsall, WS2 7JL
•Join the conversation on twitter @WalsallCCG
•Book your place at our events here or call 0121 611 0231

You have until 22nd September 2017. Postal replies will be accepted until Monday 25th September.

Content published and promoted by Roy Sheward on behalf of Dan Barker (Liberal Democrats) all at 144 Redhouse Lane, Walsall, WS5 0DB